Which celebrated filmmaker, noted for globally acclaimed works like Bandit Queen and Elizabeth, received the Padma Bhushan in 2025?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Answer: (B) Shekhar Kapur
Explanation —
World-renowned filmmaker Shekhar Kapur has been announced as a recipient of the Padma Bhushan—India's third-highest civilian honor—for the year 2025, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of arts. Shekhar Kapur is best known for his internationally acclaimed films, such as Bandit Queen (1994)—which was based on the life of Phoolan Devi—and the historical drama Elizabeth (1998). His film Elizabeth garnered multiple Oscar nominations, earning him global recognition.
Shekhar Kapur has served as a bridge between Indian and global cinema. His other notable works include classic Hindi films such as Mr. India and Masoom. Additionally, he has served as the Chairman of the Pune-based Film and Television Institute of India (FTII). His name features prominently in the 2025 list of Padma Awards recipients from the entertainment industry.
Additional Points —
Mira Nair: Famous for Salaam Bombay! and Monsoon Wedding, she received the Padma Bhushan in 2012.
Deepa Mehta: An Indo-Canadian filmmaker known for her Elements trilogy.
R. Balki: A renowned director known for films such as Cheeni Kum and Paa; however, he has not yet received the Padma Bhushan.
Potential Exam Questions & Answers —
Question: Who has been awarded the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2024 (the most recent recipient)?
Answer: Mithun Chakraborty.
Question: Who was the first Indian to win an Oscar?
Answer: Bhanu Athaiya (for Best Costume Design for the film Gandhi).